Distracted Driver in Mt. Vernon, Illinois Hits Pedestrian While Allegedly Using Cell Phone

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Distracted Driver in Mt. Vernon, Illinois Hits Pedestrian While Allegedly Using Cell Phone

Category: Distracted Driving

Posted February 1, 2025 by admin


Driver’s Negligence Blamed in Mount Vernon Pedestrian Crash

A serious accident in Mount Vernon, Illinois left a pedestrian in critical condition after an 18-year-old driver, allegedly distracted by an electronic device, struck him on Salem Road.

According to Mount Vernon Police Chief Robert Brands, the crash occurred shortly before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, January 22. Authorities identified the driver as Tyson Lyday, of Mount Vernon, but have not yet released the name of the injured pedestrian, an adult male.

Police reports indicate that Lyday was actively using an electronic device while driving, which resulted in his failure to notice and avoid the pedestrian. Authorities cited him for aggravated use of an electronic communication device, emphasizing that his distracted driving played a direct role in the collision.

Emergency responders found the pedestrian unresponsive when they arrived on the scene. Medical personnel later transported him to an Evansville, Indiana hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Lyday also received medical treatment following the crash.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement and local officials stress the dangers of distracted driving, urging drivers to stay focused on the road to prevent tragic accidents like this one. Lyday is scheduled to appear in Jefferson County court on March 3 to face legal proceedings related to his actions.

This incident highlights the devastating consequences of driver negligence, reinforcing the need for stricter enforcement against distracted driving to protect pedestrians and motorists alike.

Criminal Consequences for Aggravated Use of an Electronic Device in Illinois

In Illinois, aggravated use of an electronic device while driving is a serious traffic offense that can lead to severe criminal consequences, particularly when it results in bodily harm or death. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/12-610.2), drivers are prohibited from using handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. When a driver’s distraction causes an accident that results in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement, the charge escalates to a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. If the accident leads to the death of another person, the offense becomes a Class 4 felony, carrying a potential sentence of one to three years in prison and even higher fines.

Beyond fines and jail time, drivers convicted of aggravated use of an electronic device also face license suspension or revocation, depending on the severity of the accident. A conviction can also have long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates, employment difficulties, and a permanent criminal record. Illinois courts take distracted driving cases seriously, especially when negligence leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Prosecutors and law enforcement officials continue to push for stricter enforcement to deter drivers from using their phones behind the wheel, recognizing the devastating impact these reckless actions have on victims and their families.

How an Illinois Personal Injury Firm Can Help Victims of Distracted Driving

At Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C., we understand the devastating impact a pedestrian accident can have on both the victim and their loved ones. Our hearts go out to the pedestrian critically injured in this tragic accident, and we sincerely hope for his full recovery. No one should suffer life-altering injuries due to a driver’s negligence, especially when the crash results from something as preventable as distracted driving. In situations like these, victims deserve strong legal representation to ensure they receive the justice and compensation they need to recover.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have spent decades fighting for injured pedestrians throughout Illinois. We routinely handle cases involving distracted drivers, thoroughly investigating every detail to establish liability and prove negligence. From obtaining cell phone data to securing witness statements and accident reconstruction, we take swift action to preserve critical evidence. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame, but we aggressively advocate for our clients, ensuring they are not left to bear the financial burden of someone else’s reckless actions.

Beyond legal representation, we are deeply committed to supporting victims through every step of the recovery process. Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and emotional trauma can overwhelm accident victims and their families. Our team works tirelessly to secure full compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs. If a pedestrian’s injuries result in permanent disability or a prolonged recovery, we fight to ensure they receive future damages so they can focus on healing without financial stress.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a distracted driverHassakis & Hassakis, P.C. is here to help. We provide compassionate, personalized legal counsel and offer free consultations to discuss your case. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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